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Hi I'm Jonathan

I grew up in Minnesota and live in the Seattle Area. I root for the Seattle Storm. I practice patent law and I'm a Mormon.

About Me

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I'm a good husband, a recent leukemia survivor, a daddy wannabe, and a member of the "Mormons for Marriage Equality" movement. I was glad to discover that I am not the only one whose conscience is like mine. I try hard to love my neighbors as myself, and not to judge them. I try hard to be kind and generous, even to the least of my brethren: I believe that is what the Savior wants of me.

Why I am a Mormon

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I believe because after years of being married to a delightful Mormon woman and investigating the LDS Church with gusto, my objections were resolved and I decided to accept the doctrine.
Being LDS is fun. All people should be so fortunate to have the community connections and energy that LDS folks typically extend to one another. Jesus Christ set a marvelous example of human kindness, of course, well deserving of our allegiance and study and imitation. LDS folks have some work to do in terms of understanding and being understood by others (especially LGBT and atheists, e.g.), but this "I'm a Mormon" campaign should help. This is a great time to be a Mormon.

How I live my faith

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I do a lot of service work both as an LDS (Mormon) person and also as an active Unitarian Universalist. I have been called a "double dipper," and it keeps me pretty busy. This summer I helped to organize a large contingent that marched in the PrideFest Parade (in my UU hat) and also to organize a large food drive (in my LDS hat). Last summer I conducted a UU church service in which I presented my LDS practice to my UU community, squarely seeking to address the controversial issue of gay marriage. I believe that all sides in any controversy have their blind spots, and that we can make the best progress possible by practicing integrity and compassion with each other. Democracy is for building consensus over time, not just rallying the troops and getting your way. Blessed are the peacemakers, for we have an abundance of worthy tasks before us.

Are Mormons Christians?

Jonathan

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Some people choose to define a charged word like "Christian" narrowly, often so narrow that very few Americans would qualify. That is their right, but I respectfully suggest that LDS people are as deserving as most other Americans to use that title if they so choose. Is "Jesus Christ" in the name of your church?Show moreShow less

Is it true that Jesus appeared in North America after his crucifixion and resurrection according to the Book of Mormon?

Jonathan

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I have decided to believe that it is. Yes.Show moreShow less

What blessings can you receive from reading the Book of Mormon, the Bible, and other scriptures?

Jonathan

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Whatever your faith, the scriptures are a treasure trove of timeless wisdom on what matters in being human. It was not long ago that I overcame my allergy to scriptures, even Old Testament stuff. So if you care enough to read what I have to say, spend some time reading the Nephi 2 or Moroni (in the Book of Mormon) ... I promise you will find something worthwhile.Show moreShow less

This biologist uses the scientific method every day in his professional life, but in his personal life, Kevin Livingstone relies on a different set of tools for answering big questions about life on earth.